Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck? I am overweight with loose skin (Photo)

Question

I woild like to know if I could be a candidate for a tummt tuck being overweight. I have been trying to lose weight fr 3 1/2 years after I had my daughter but nothing has worked for me. I have alwas had the loose skin and have always wanted to get a tummy tuck. I will attach pictures...

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out to inquire about the possibility of getting a tummy tuck despite being overweight. It's important to note that the most crucial factor in determining whether someone is a candidate for surgery is their overall health, rather than their weight alone. We always prioritize our patients' safety and well-being above all else, and therefore will run a series of health tests before any surgery to ensure that the patient is healthy enough to undergo the procedure.

With that being said, it's important to note that carrying excess weight can increase the risks and complications associated with surgery. Therefore, we recommend that patients who are considering a tummy tuck or any other surgical procedure try to reach a healthy weight beforehand for optimal results. This can be achieved through a combination of diet and exercise, with an emphasis on reducing carbohydrates and sugars.

We understand that weight loss can be a difficult and frustrating process, but please know that we are here to support you throughout your journey towards a healthier and happier you. Our team is always available to provide guidance, resources, and encouragement, and we will work with you to develop a personalized plan that fits your unique needs and goals.

Thank you again for your question, and we look forward to helping you achieve your desired results in a safe and healthy manner.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen

Mansher Singh, MD, FACS · Answer

You are definitely a great candidate for tummy tuck. However, it would be very helpful if you include your weight so that we have a good sense of your BMI. Generally speaking, if your BMI is more than 34, your surgeon will ask you to lose some weight before proceeding with surgery

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

You'll want your BMI to be at least less than 35 and preferably less than 30.  An extended tummy tuck will remove the excess skin which extends beyond your hip bones.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. From your pictures, you seem to be a good candidate for a tummy tuck as long as you do not exceed the max Body Mass Index (BMI) limit for tummy tuck surgery which is 33 at our practice. The BMI is a combination of your height and weight. You can check your BMI using an online BMI calculator. Hope this helps. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take Care, Dr. Moises Salama, board certified plastic surgeon.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photos. From your photos, you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck with liposuction. A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chicago
South Barrington
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Dhaval Patel MD 
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
Chicago 
South Barrington 
Oakbrook 
Orland Park

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

It is important to acknowledge that safety should always be the first priority and your current BMI is way too high and you may end up with a bad complications.  Your BMI must be below 30. 
Your abdomen is very protruding because you have a lot of visceral fat and that volume will prevent you to have a muscle repair during the Tummy tuck, so if there will not be an improvement on your abdominal appearance so I consider the surgery has no reason. 
Be encouraged!!! After losing the weight you will become a healthier person and perfect candidate for surgery. 
Dr. Cárdenas

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not told us your height and weight. At this time, it appears you would benefit from a panniculectomy. Another option is bariatric surgery. I recommend you begin a low fat diet, core exercises such as sit-ups, planks, pilates and consult a weight loss physician.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Reliable410891,
generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a tummy tuck, otherwise your results will be suboptimal if you continue to lose weight after the surgery.If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos it appears you would have better results from a tummy tuck if you first lost weight. The round appearance of your abdomen is likely from visceral fat which is the fat behind your abdominal wall that surrounds your organs.  This fat cannot be addressed through a tummy tuck or liposuction; it is only improved through weight loss.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, you can get a tummy tuck, or even a mini tuck with liposuction to your upper abdomen and flanks. However, you still will have some internal fullness which is only decreased by weight loss.

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